Graphics controls for permitting background size changes

ABSTRACT

This invention provides systems and methods that allow a user to change the size of a background used with a graphics-based user interface. This enables tailored background sizes based on user preference and allowable conditions, which are particularly useful with display devices having a large display area. By custom sizing a background to current conditions, a user may navigate an image among obstacles at a receiving surface and obstacles along a projection path between a projection lens and receiving surface. In addition, a user may customize the background size on a large LCD screen according to more suitable dimensions for an image used in the background or to a personal preference, thereby creating a personalized look and feel for the graphics-based user interface. One embodiment of the present invention defines a usable area for a graphics-based user interface according to the current size of the background. Changing the background size in this case also then changes the usable area for the graphics-based user interface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority under U.S.C.§120from co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/891,733, filedJul. 15, 2004 and entitled “Customizable Background Sizes and Controlsfor Changing Background Size”, which is incorporated herein for allpurposes; the 10/891,733 patent application claimed priority under 35U.S.C. §119(e) from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/487,760filed Jul. 16, 2003 and entitled “CUSTOMIZABLE USER INTERFACE BACKGROUNDSIZES”, which is also incorporated by reference herein in its entiretyfor all purposes.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to backgrounds used with graphics-based userinterfaces. More particularly, the present invention relates to abackground having an adaptable size that may be changed for individualcomputer applications, interactions, and users.

Computers and computer programs employ a graphics-based user interfaceto facilitate interaction between a user and a computer or between theuser and a computer program run on the computer. The graphics-based userinterface commonly employs a background, which includes a bitmapdigitally represented by an array of pixel values.

Conventional backgrounds maximally fill the entire two-dimensionaldisplay area for a display device, such as a cathode ray tube (CRT) orliquid crystal display (LCD) screen. The background size cannot bemanipulated, selected, or changed by a user—its maximal size remainssingularly and stringently fixed.

Projectors offer image sizes having diagonal spans up to 30 feet.Imperfect and realistic environment conditions complicate the use oflarge projected images. It is common for light output by a projector toencounter physical obstacles—either along a projection path between aprojector and receiving surface, at the receiving surface, or both. Aprojector used in an office or home may encounter a wide variety ofprojection path obstacles such as plants, bookshelves, chairs,miscellaneous furniture, etc., that limit where the projector is placedand where the image is cast. The lack of mobility for many projectors,such as those fixed into a ceiling and those that require a minimumthrow distance, adds to projector and image placement difficulties. Thestringency of maximum sized backgrounds offered by conventionalgraphics-based user interfaces amplifies these complications.

Based on the foregoing, improved backgrounds and graphics-based userinterfaces would be desirable.

OVERVIEW

The present invention provides systems and methods that allow a user tochange the size of a background used with a graphics-based userinterface. This enables tailored background sizes based on userpreference and allowable conditions, which are particularly useful withdisplay devices having a large display area. For example, a user mayreduce background size to 50 percent of the maximum image size allowedby a projector according to the allowable area of a receiving surfacethat the projector casts an image onto. By custom sizing a background tocurrent conditions, a user may navigate an image among obstacles at thereceiving surface and obstacles along a projection path between aprojection lens and the receiving surface. Using graphics toolsdescribed herein, a user may customize a background size to a personalpreference or an image used in the background. For example, a user maystyle a background size on a large LCD screen to a desired size andshape, thereby creating a personalized look and feel for thegraphics-based user interface.

One embodiment of the present invention defines a usable area for agraphics-based user interface according to the current size of thebackground. Changing the background size in this embodiment also changesthe usable area for the graphics-based user interface. This re-definesthe visual limits for display of windows, graphics, browsers, and othervisual output, and re-defines spatial limits for the use of pointers andother user input. Changing the background size may also relocate icons,control bars, and any other graphics components associated with visuallyoutput of the background.

In one aspect, the present invention relates to a background for usewith a graphics-based user interface and for display using a displaydevice. The background comprises background video information fordisplay according to orthogonal image coordinates. The background alsocomprises a background size that is less than a maximum image sizeallowed by the display device when the background video information isfor display without substantial keystone distortion. The backgroundfurther comprises perimeter that bounds the background videoinformation, borders the background size, and defines a usable area forthe graphics-based user interface.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a background for usewith a graphics-based user interface and for display using a displaydevice. The display device has a maximum image size when videoinformation included in the background is for display withoutsubstantial keystone distortion. The maximum image size is characterizedby maximum image size dimensions in first and second image directions.The background comprises video information for display according toorthogonal image coordinates. The background further comprises aperimeter that bounds the background video information and defines ausable area for the graphics-based user interface. The background alsocomprises a background size characterized by background dimensions inthe first and second image directions. A background dimension in one ofthe first and second image directions is less than a correspondingmaximum image size dimension in the first or second image direction.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a graphicscontrol for changing the size of a background used with a graphics baseduser interface. The graphics control comprises at least one backgroundcontrol tool including video information for display by a display devicehaving a maximum image size when the video information is for displaywithout substantial keystone distortion. The at least one backgroundcontrol tool allows a user to change the background size to a backgroundsize less than the maximum image size.

In still another aspect, the present invention relates to agraphics-based user interface for display using a display device. Thegraphics-based user interface comprises a background having an adaptablesize and including background video information for display according toorthogonal image coordinates. The background video information is foroutput by a display device having a maximum image size when thebackground video information is for display without substantial keystonedistortion. The graphics-based user interface also comprises a graphicscontrol that allows a user to change the background size to a backgroundsize less than the maximum image size.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method forchanging the size of a background associated with a graphics-based userinterface. The method comprises displaying at least one backgroundcontrol tool that allows a user to change the background size. Themethod also comprises changing the background size in response to userinput via the at least one background control tool.

In yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a computerreadable medium including instructions for changing the size of abackground associated with a graphics-based user interface. Thecomputer-readable medium comprises instructions for displaying at leastone background control tool that allows a user to change the backgroundsize. The computer-readable medium also comprises instructions forchanging the background size in response to user input via thebackground control tool. Video information included in the background isfor display without substantial keystone distortion before and after thebackground size change.

These and other features of the present invention will be presented inmore detail in the following detailed description of the invention andthe associated figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a background having an adaptable size in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a background graphics control for changing the sizeof a background in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a graphics-based user interface including abackground having an adaptable size and a graphics control for changingthe background size in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 illustrates a process flow for changing the size of a backgroundassociated with a graphics-based user interface in accordance with oneembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary computer system suitable forimplementing the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference toa few preferred embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanyingdrawings. In the following description, numerous specific details areset forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the presentinvention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, thatthe present invention may be practiced without some or all of thesespecific details. In other instances, well known process steps and/orstructures have not been described in detail in order to notunnecessarily obscure the present invention.

The present invention allows a user to customize a background size for abackground used with a graphics-based user interface. Changing abackground size as described herein reduces the image size to less thana maximum image size available from a display device. In some cases, acustomized background enhances visual appeal of the background andimproves look and feel for the graphics-based user interface. Forexample, a user may select or style a background to include an aspectratio or shape that corresponds to a favorite picture or logo, therebycreating a personalized look and feel for the graphics-based userinterface.

Since conventional backgrounds were stringently restricted to a singlemaximum size, users conformed to limited practice with a graphics-baseduser interface. The present invention, however, allows for expandedinteraction between a user and graphics-based user interface.Interaction with a computer may be manipulated and personalizedaccording to a background shape, size and aspect ratio, for example.

The present invention finds particular use with projectors used as adisplay device. Image size for a projector traditionally depended onmechanical factors such as the distance from a projector to thereceiving surface and a splay angle for the projection lens. Obstaclesat the receiving surface traditionally forced a user to move a projectorcloser to the wall to reduce image size. Any obstacles along the pathbetween the projector and receiving surface also forced a user to movethe projected image and/or projector. The present invention howeverenables a user to tailor a background size, thereby negating the effectsof obstacles and maximizing image size based on specific projectionconditions. For example, a user may tailor projector output used in aliving room or office to navigate projection path or receiving surfaceobstacles that normally would obstruct the projection path and limitwhere the projector is placed, where the receiving image is cast, orlimit image size.

The present invention also enables new uses for projectors. Cubicles andother portable office environments offer limited wall space. Projectorsare currently not used in these environments due to the limitedreceiving surface space and projection path obstacles. The presentinvention however enables a worker within confined spaces such as thisto tailor the background size and usable area to their local environmentallowances. Thus, if the unobstructed wall space and projection pathallow a rectangular image having an aspect ratio of 3:1, the user maytailor a background size to maximally fit the available area.Previously, the user would be forced to move the projector closer to thewall (if possible), maintain a 4:3 aspect ratio image set by theprojector and graphics-based user interface, and therefore use less thanhalf the available area.

FIG. 1 illustrates a background 10 having an adaptable size inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Background 10is intended for use with graphics-based user interfaces employed bycomputing systems and devices that utilize a display device for visualoutput.

Background 10 comprises video information for display according toorthogonal image coordinates. The background video information refers todata for display according to a pixel arrangement to produce a visualrepresentation of the data. The data is stored in a logical manner usingvalues for each pixel, usually based on a given pixel resolution thatmay or may not match the display device resolution. Picture files usedin a background commonly comprise video information stored as a bitmap,which comprises an array of luma and/or chroma values for each pixel inthe stored image. Color bitmaps may be stored as “.BMP” files usingpixel depths such as 8, 16, 24, and 32 bits. Other graphics formats,such as GIF, JPEG, and others, can also be used to store a backgroundimage.

The orthogonal image coordinates refer to a stored data format,positional arrangement for pixels, or an assumed output format fordisplay of the video information. Pixel values are usually assigned orstored according to a positional arrangement of pixels in a planarimage, such as a right angle x-y coordinate system. The x-y coordinatepixel locations are then used to determine where video data is output onan image, such as that provided by an LCD screen or an optical modulatorincluded in a projector.

Characterizing video information according to orthogonal imagecoordinates denotes how they are stored and/or intended for display, andnot necessarily how they are actually cast or displayed. Thus, thepresent invention anticipates that the output image may not always betruly orthogonal. For a CRT monitor for example, it is understood thatthe actual image coordinates may not always be perfectly orthogonal to aviewer, e.g. due to slight curvature in the output screen for CRTmonitor. Image coordinates produced for a projected image may also notalways be truly orthogonal. When a projection lens that outputs thevideo information for a projector has a central axis that is notperpendicular to a receiving surface, keystone distortion of the imagemay appear. Briefly, keystone distortion results from portions of areceiving surface being closer to the projection lens and other portionsof the receiving surface being farther. Since image size for a projectordepends on distance from the projection lens, image sizes for the closerreceiving surface portions are smaller than those farther away. Keystonedistortion often produces a trapezoidal image for rectangular videoinformation intended for display according to orthogonal imagecoordinates. Many conventional projectors include a mechanical ordigital keystone correction tool for reducing keystone distortion.

The present invention includes a background 10 size that is less than amaximum image size 12 allowed by a display device when the background 10video information is for display without substantial keystonedistortion. It is understood that correction of keystone distortion maynot always produce perfectly orthogonal image pixels. More specifically,manual keystone correction often relies on user feedback to indicatewhen an image output by a projector has been substantially keystonecorrected. Since this process is based on an individual user'sacceptable viewing conditions and visual abilities, it is understoodthat images produced by projectors may not always include trulyorthogonal image coordinates. Acceptable keystoning in this case mayinclude up to 10 percent error, for example. Even projectors employingautomated keystone correction, via a camera or other automated sensor toindicate an amount of potential distortion, may be subject to slightdeviation from a true orthogonal image after the image has beensubstantially corrected.

Size changes to a background as described herein are independent ofkeystone correction. Thus, for an LCD screen that does not includekeystone distortion issues, the present invention includes a backgroundsize that is less than the maximum image size allowed by the LCD screen.For a projector, changes in background size described herein may occurafter keystone correction has occurred, if any. The background sizechanges are thus independent of changes made to attain an orthogonalimage. In addition, size changes to a background as described herein arealso independent of hardware tools or effects used to alter displaydevice performance, such as hardware tools found on some CRT monitorsthat allow a user to shift or bow video output, or zoom tools that allowa user to magnify portions of an image without changing the image size.

Background 10 is output by a display device having a maximum image size12. The maximum image size 12 implies that the display device has afinite size when the background video information is for display withoutsubstantial keystone distortion. For an CRT screen, OLED device, LCDscreen or plasma-based display, there is typically no keystonedistortion and the maximum image size 12 may be quantified according tomaximal pixel dimensions for the optical modulator, or measuredaccording to maximal linear dimensions that span the display area.Maximum image size 12 is independent from any orthogonal imperfectionsin the device such as screen curvature in a CRT device; and alsoencompasses any manual and optical adjustments made to the image usingtools on the display device, such as hardware outer screen sizemanipulations permitted by some CRT monitors.

For a projector, maximum image size 12 may be characterized using themaximum pixel dimensions for an optical modulator producing the imagewhen the background video information is for display without substantialkeystone distortion. Thus, maximum image size 12 is typically limitedbased on the optical modulation device (DMD or LCD) resolution. Maximumlinear dimensions for a projector will vary with the distance betweenthe receiving surface and projector output lens, as well as a splayangle for the projector, but may be measured on the image—after anykeystone distortion has been suitably corrected for. When the backgroundvideo information is for display with substantial keystone correction,maximum image size 12 is the maximum image size available after anykeystone distortion has been substantially corrected for.

A perimeter 14 of background 10 bounds background video informationincluded in background 10 and acts as a border for the background sizeand shape. The perimeter 14 comprises the outermost pixels for theimage, such as the outer pixels for a bitmap picture fit to the reducedsize.

In one embodiment, perimeter 14 also determines an allowable usable areafor the graphics-based user interface. The usable area defines visualoutput limits and user input limits for the graphics-based userinterface. Thus, the usable area establishes spatial limits for displayof graphics used by programs operated with the graphics-based userinterface. For example, perimeter 14 determines the visual limits forthe display of pointers, windows, graphics controls, browsers, and othervisual output included in the graphics-based user interface or programsrun on a computer that employs the graphics-based user interface. In aspecific embodiment, background 10 size limits dimensions for a windowopened or displayed at full size. Similarly, a window browser opened atfull size may be limited in size, shape and aspect ratio to perimeter14, minus any space reserved for tool bars and other constantly visiblegraphics components. Perimeter 14 also determines the limit for userinput, such as manipulating a pointer, opening a window, expanding ormoving a window, moving a graphics control or other graphics components,etc. In addition, perimeter 14 defines spatial limits that boundprograms and program actions associated with the graphics-based userinterface.

Regions of maximum image size 12 outside of perimeter 14 remain visuallyunused. In one embodiment, the graphics-based user interface convertsvisual information outside perimeter 14 to an off state, zero or black.For example, the graphics-based user interface may convert any pixelvalues for pixels outside perimeter 14 to zero or black for visualinformation output by programs associated with the graphics-based userinterface, e.g., a screen saver would be black or off for pixels outsideperimeter 14. For an LCD screen, back generated light may be fullyblocked outside of perimeter 14 to create the appearance of black. For aprojector, the optical modulator may not transmit light for theseregions. In one embodiment, bitmaps stored for backgrounds of thepresent invention include zero values for pixels outside perimeter 14.

In this embodiment, changing an aspect ratio or shape for background 10also changes perimeter 14 and the usable area. The new perimeter 14 thendefines the new limits for the usable area.

The size of background 10 may be characterized in a number of ways. Onesuitable technique for characterizing background 10 size uses two lineardimensions defined in the image plane. A two-dimensional image may becharacterized by an outer width and orthogonal outer length. Asdescribed herein, ‘width’ refers to the horizontal dimension of atwo-dimensional image, while ‘length’ refers to the vertical dimension.As shown in FIG. 1, first and second orthogonal image directions 11 and13 characterize maximum image size 12. An LCD screen for examplecomprises an orthogonal width 16 and length 18 that span the displayarea of the device (e.g., 12 in. by 9 in., respectively). An areaquantifying maximum image size 12 is then easily determined. A similarquantification may be made for other display devices, including imagesproduced by a projector after suitable keystone correction. Directions11 and 13 are also useful to quantify background 10 size. Morespecifically, background 10 may be defined by background dimensions 15and 17 in directions 11 and 13, respectively. As shown in FIG. 1, bothbackground dimensions 15 and 17 are less than maximum image sizedimensions 16 and 18 in directions 11 and 13, respectively.

Another suitable technique for characterizing background 10 size usesthe total number of pixels included in background 10. When the maximumimage size 12 for the display device is similarly quantified, thepresent invention may characterize background 10 size relative to themaximum image size 12. For example, an LCD screen may have a resolutionof 1600 by 1200 pixels, resulting in a maximum image size of 1,920,000pixels. In one embodiment, background 10 has a non-quadrilateral shapeand comprises an area based on a pixel count or similar quantificationthat approximates the non-quadrilateral size.

A user, using a graphics control as described below, may then input adesired ratio or percentage for background 10 size based on the maximumimage size 12. The user may also input a preferred shape or aspect ratio(for a rectangular background). A processor or video adapter associatedwith the graphics control converts background video information includedin background 10 according to the new size, including resolution downand/or up conversion of the video information, if needed. In oneembodiment, background 10 has a size that is less than about 80 percentof maximum image size 12. In another embodiment, background 10 has asize that is less than about 50 percent of maximum image size 12. Inanother reduction embodiment, background 10 has a size that is less thanabout 30 percent of maximum image size 12.

The present invention also enables a user to position a smallerbackground within the maximum image size 12. As illustrated in FIG. 1,background 10 has a geometric center 20 that is offset from a geometriccenter 22 of the display device. The geometric center 22 is defined by ageometric center for the maximum image size 14.

Graphics-based user interfaces employ what are referred to as “graphicscontrols”. A graphics control is a discrete video object, for display bya display device, which can be manipulated by a user to change one ormore graphics outputs or effects and/or to initiate an action in anassociated application program. The graphics control often includes itsown bitmap comprising an array of pixel values. FIG. 2 illustrates abackground graphics control 40 for changing the size of a background inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. While thepresent invention will now be described as graphics systems andcomponents useful for changing the size of a background, those skilledin the art will recognize that the subsequent description may alsoillustrate methods and discrete actions for changing the size of abackground.

Background graphics control 40 facilitates interface between a user anda program run on the computer that allows the user to change the size ofa background. Background graphics control 40 comprises a number ofbackground control tools 42-49 for display to a user. Current backgrounddisplay 42 provides the user a visual indication of the currentbackground size and shape. A display device 43 is also illustrated toprovide an indication of the relative size between the currentbackground display 42 and the maximum image size 44 for display device43.

Background size control tool 45 includes two buttons that allow a userto change the current background display 42. A first button 45 a allowsa user to increase the current background display 42 size, while asecond button 45 b allows a user to decrease the current backgrounddisplay 42 size. Either button allows a user to change the backgroundsize to less than the maximum image size 44. The buttons 45 a and 45 bhave a textual label 45 c that, along with their pictorialrepresentations, describes their button function. The user may select abutton by moving an on-screen pointer or manipulanda to the button andpressing a key. The graphics-based user interface interprets thisselection as an instruction from the user, and performs the functionrelated to the button's label. Background size control tool 45 changesthe current background display 42 size without changing the backgroundshape or aspect ratio.

Background position control tool 46 includes four buttons that allow auser to position the current background display 42 within maximum imagesize 44. The four buttons 46 a, 46 b, 46 c, and 46 d allow a user tomove the current background display 42 up, right, left, and down,respectively.

A user may also position current background display 42 using point anddrag functionality. More specifically, many graphics-based userinterfaces allow a user to ‘drag’ graphics components by moving anon-screen pointer or manipulanda within background display 42, pressinga key, and moving current background display 42 while the key ispressed. The current background display 42 assumes the position it haswhen the key is released.

An apply button 47 allows a user to initiate changes made withingraphics control 40 to current background display 42 onto the actualbackground for the graphics-based user interface. Thus, after changes tocurrent background display 42 are finished, the user may click applybutton 47 to implement any background changes.

Background aspect ratio control tool 48 includes a text input window 48a that allows a user to manually input a new aspect ratio for an aboutrectangular background. For example, a user may move an on-screenpointer or manipulanda to text input window 48 a, click a mouse buttonor key within the window to gain access, and input a desired aspectratio using a keyboard or numeric pad. Aspect ratio control tool 48characterizes the aspect ratio for current background display 42according to width : length. A scroll tool 48 b provides a user accessto a set of preset background aspect ratios that allow the user to userto select a predetermined aspect ratio from the set. Common aspectratios in the scroll set may include 3:1, 11:6, 4:3, 2.35:1, 16:9, 2:3,2:4 and 4:1, for example. Aspect ratio options may also be normalizedfor length. In this case, the aspect ratio is quantified as widthdivided by length to length. Some examples include 2.1:1, 2.35:1,1.85:1, 2.55:1, 2.76:1 and 1.77:1. After the ratio is entered, currentbackground display 42 may adapt to the new aspect ratio input toillustrate the change.

A user may also change the aspect ratio for an about rectangularbackground display 42 using click and drag functionality. Manygraphics-based user interfaces allow a user to change window sizes bymoving an on-screen pointer or manipulanda to an edge of a window,pressing a key, and changing the window size while the button ispressed. Similarly, graphics control 40 allows a user to an aspect ratiofor current background display 42 by moving an on-screen pointer ormanipulanda to an edge of a current background display 42, pressing akey, and changing the rectangular dimensions of the current backgrounddisplay 42 while the button is pressed. The current background display42 assumes the new aspect ratio it has when the key is released.

Click and drag functionality may also be used outside of graphicscontrol 40 to change the size of a background. In this embodiment, auser may move an on-screen pointer or manipulanda to an edge ofbackground 10 (FIG. 1). At this point, an arrow 50 appears on perimeter14 and points in a direction normal to a direction for the edge on whichit appears. The user may then press a key, and change the rectangulardimensions of the background 10 while the button is pressed in thenormal direction.

Alternatively, the control tools may comprise a scroll wheel and akeyboard key and the user changes the background or graphics componentsize by using the scroll wheel and keyboard key in unison. For example,the background control tool may comprise a scroll wheel disposed on amouse and a predetermined control key, and the user changes background10 by positioning a pointer on a header portion of background 10, andusing the scroll wheel and control key in unison. In response to thedual input, the background size uniformly changes size in bothorthogonal image directions. Background 10 assumes the new size it haswhen the key is released. In this manner, the user may change background10 to any size less than the maximum image size.

Returning to FIG. 2, background size control tool 51 includes a textinput window 51 a that allows a user to change the current backgrounddisplay 42 by inputting a new percentage size for current backgrounddisplay 42 relative to the maximum image size 44 for display device 43.The percentage may be based on quantifications of area for backgrounddisplay 42 and maximum image size 44 based on pixel count or area,optical modulation area, or image area. Thus, size control tool 51allows a user to change the current background display 42 size to abackground size less than the maximum image size 44 based on apercentage. A scroll tool 51 b provides a user access to a set of presetbackground percentage sizes that allow the user to user to select apredetermined percentage size from the set. Common sizes in the scrollset may include 80%, 60%, 50%, 40%, and 25%, for example. Backgroundsize control tool 51 changes the current background display 42 sizeaccording to the new percentage size without changing the backgroundshape or aspect ratio.

Background image control tool 49 includes an image window 49 a thatallows a user to select an image for current background display 42. Aset of bitmaps and other image files is displayed within window 49 a. Ascroll bar 49 b allows the user to navigate among a large number ofimage files. Background size control tool 49 changes the videoinformation in current background display 42 according to the videoinformation included in the selected image file. In one embodiment,current background display 42 automatically adapts to an aspect ratiofor the video information included in the selected image file, such as apanoramic image. Background image search tool 49 c allows a user tobrowse for an image file within a computer file directory stored inmemory.

Some of the background control tools 42, such as current backgrounddisplay 42 and image control tool 49, use visual output for userfeedback. Video information included in the background control tools 42is configured for display by a display device having a maximum imagesize when the video information is for display according to orthogonalimage coordinates and without substantial keystone distortion.

Background size quantification tool 52 includes a text display thatquantifies and shows the current size of background display 42. Thequantification may be made using a pixel count for the currentbackground display 42, a square approximation using orthogonaldimensions, or a percentage of maximum image size 44 (shown), forexample.

In addition to the specific tools described above, background controltools for graphics control 40 may include combinations of commonconventional graphics control tools such as buttons, options, scrollbars, pictures, spin dials, list boxes, text boxes, etc. For example, acheck box is a control tool that comprises an empty box. When a userselects the box, it is filled with an “X” or other suitable informationto indicate that the user has selected an option corresponding to thebox. One or more check boxes may be used to allow a user to quicklyselect from one or more predetermined background sizes, such as thosecorresponding to a percentage of the maximum image size. Graphicscontrol 40 also includes a ‘cancel’ button that closes graphics controlwindow 40 without initiating any changes made to the current backgrounddisplay 42, and an ‘OK’ button that closes graphics control window 40and applies any changes as described above with respect to apply button47.

FIG. 3 illustrates a graphics-based user interface 100 includingbackground 10 and graphics control 40 in accordance with one embodimentof the invention. Graphics-based user interface 100 is suitable for usewith computers and computer programs to facilitate interaction between auser and a computer or between the user and a computer program run onthe computer. Graphics-based user interface 100 is for display using aprojector having a maximum image size 102 when the video informationincluded in background 10 is for display without substantial keystonedistortion.

Background 10 has an adaptable size and includes background videoinformation for display according to orthogonal image coordinates. Aperimeter 104 of background 10 defines a usable area for graphics-baseduser interface 100. Perimeter 104 thus determines the boundary for useand display of user interface components and tools such as pointers,windows, graphics controls, Internet browsers, and other visual outputincluded in the graphics-based user interface. Background 10 underliesany temporary and constant graphics components displayed bygraphics-based user interface 100. Temporary graphics components mayinclude graphics control 40, word processing windows, pictures, files,etc. Disposed proximate to perimeter 104 are constant graphicscomponents such as icons 106 and a control bar 108. Changing the size ofbackground 10 relocates the positions of icons 106 and control bar 108according to a new perimeter 104 of background 10.

Graphics control 40 allows a user to change the size of background 10 toa background size less than the maximum image size 102. Graphics control40 comprises a number of background control tools for display to a user.One background control tool allows a user to increase or decrease thecurrent background 10 to a size less than the maximum image size for thedisplay. Another background control tool allows a user to position thebackground 10 within a maximum image size. Other background controltools may allow a user to a) manually input a new aspect ratio for anabout rectangular background 10, b) input a new percentage size forcurrent background display 42 relative to the maximum image size, c) toselect an image for background 10.

FIG. 4 illustrates a process flow 200 for changing the size of abackground included with a graphics-based user interface in accordancewith one embodiment of the invention. While the present invention willnow be described as a method and separable actions for changing the sizeof a background, those skilled in the art will recognize that thesubsequent description may also illustrate computer and software systemsand components capable of performing the method and actions.

Process flow 200 begins by displaying at least one background controltool that allows a user to change the background size (202). A suitablegraphics control comprising numerous background control tools isdescribed with respect to FIG. 2. The graphics control is accessible toa user via one or more locations or operations in the graphics-baseduser interface. For example, a user may right click a mouse of otherinput within the background to gain access and display the graphicscontrol window. Before the background control tool is displayed, processflow 200 may also include keystone correction of video output from aprojector, if any keystone distortion is present. Many conventionalprojectors mechanically or digitally, and manually or automatically,adapt video information to provide an image that more or less correctsfor keystone distortion.

Using the background control tool, a user then inputs a desiredbackground size or changes the current background size as desired (204).Input may constitute linear dimensions for an LCD screen or CRT monitor,such as a desired 12 in. by 4-inch background for on an LCD screenhaving a 12 in. by 9 in. maximum image size. For a projector, user inputmay comprise a percentage of the maximum image size allowed by theprojector when the background video information is displayed withoutsubstantial keystone distortion. Either way, the user may increase ordecrease the background size to a size less than a maximum image sizefor the display device. Input may also comprise selecting an image orbitmap having video information for use in the background, inputting anaspect ratio for the background, and positioning the background withinthe maximum image size. In one embodiment, a visual indication of thebackground size and shape is displayed to the user before any change ismade. Before applying any change, the user may re-size the background asdesired, e.g., from a 12 in. by 4-inch background to a 6 in. by 9-inchsize.

In one embodiment, process flow 200 is used in conjunction with aprojector as the display device. In this case, a user may manipulate thebackground size according to an allowable projection path for the imageor allowable area for receiving surface. Thus, a background may bemanipulated in its outer dimensions to avoid visual obstacles inprojection path or on the receiving surface. For example, a backgroundmay be vertically raised by a user to avoid pictures on a desk orhorizontally shifted to sidestep a cabinet, filing area or othervertical obstacle.

After the user finishes inputting changes to the background size, avideo adapter or processor associated with the graphics-based userinterface then changes the background according to the new backgroundsize (206), which may also comprise changing the background videoinformation. To do so, the video adapter or processor may interrogatethe display device to determine display properties of the displaydevice, such as the display device resolution, native aspect ratio, andfull-size dimensions. If the resolution for the background image orbitmap does not match the resolution provided according to the currentbackground size and resolution of the display device, the graphicsadapter or processor may alter the video information in the backgroundbitmap. Alteration may include resolution down conversion and/or upconversion on the background video information, in equal or unequalquantities in the orthogonal image directions.

For example, if the background bitmap has a higher resolution than thecurrent background size, the video adapter or processor may down convertvideo information in the bitmap according to the resolution available inthe background size input by the user. Thus, if the user input abackground size of 25% relative to the maximum image size, and theprojector includes an optical modulator that offers 1024 by 768resolution, then the current background size offers a 512 by 384resolution. The graphics adaptor then down converts a bitmap having a1024 by 768 resolution by a factor of 2 equally in both image directionsto fit the current 512 by 384 resolution. Similarly, the graphicsadaptor down converts a bitmap having an 800 by 600 resolution by afactor of 1.5625 equally in both image directions to fit the sameresolution and background size input by the user. The user may thenposition this smaller image within the maximum image as desired. In aspecific embodiment, the default location for a smaller image is thegeometric center for the maximum image size, and the user moves theimage from this location using a suitable background position controltool.

If the user input a desired background size or an aspect ratio thatvaries from the native aspect ratio of the background bitmap, then thevideo adapter may alter the video information in the bitmap to fit thecurrent size as determined by the differing resolution ratios betweenthe background bitmap and the current background size in each orthogonalimage direction. Background bitmaps most commonly use a 4:3 aspect ratioto comply with the default 4:3 aspect ratio used by older CRT and LCDscreens. For example, given a projector offering a 1024 by 768resolution, user input for a 2:1 aspect ratio, and a 50% image sizerelative to the maximum image size; the current background size offersan 886 by 443 resolution. The amount of resolution conversion for animage may then be determined according to the ratio of resolution forthe bitmap relative to the resolution currently offered by thebackground size. For example, the graphics adaptor may unequally downconvert a 1024 by 768 resolution bitmap by a factor of 1.156 in thewidth (x) direction and by a factor of 1.734 in the length (y) directionto fit the allowable 886 by 443 resolution. Alternately, for the samebackground size conditions, the graphics adaptor may up convert a 800 by600 resolution bitmap by a factor of 1.107 in the width (x) directionand down convert by a factor of 1.354 in the length (y) direction to fitthe allowable 886 by 443 resolution background. Resolution up conversionand down conversion are techniques known to those skilled in the art andnot described in further detail here for the sake of brevity.

Any bitmap or graphics image can be used for a background with thepresent invention. In a specific embodiment, the bitmap is originallyfor display to the user according to a default size based on theresolution used in the bitmap, the resolution used by display device,and the current background size. For example, a bitmap comprising an800×600 pixel resolution is originally displayed on an LCD having a 1600by 1200 pixel resolution using the centermost 800=600 pixels. Thisdefault size is then displayed as the current background size for thebackground. The user may then elect to increase or decrease thebackground size accordingly. Background bitmaps may also be created andcustomized using popular graphics programs such as those available fromAdobe Systems Inc. of San Jose, Calif. or Microsoft of Redmond, Wash.

The present invention recognizes that graphics-based user interfacedesign and interaction varies widely and encompasses any suitabletechniques used to accept user input or change the background size basedon user input. For example, some embodiments may display an arrow thatoperates as the background control tool in response to user placement ofa pointer at a perimetric portion of the background (202). User input inthis case may comprise moving the arrow or a side that the arrow isdisplayed on (204). In response to arrow movement, the background sizechanges in a direction of the arrow by an amount the arrow is moved(206). In one embodiment, changing the background size creates a newusable area for the graphics-based user interface according to the newbackground size. This may also include repositioning icons and controlbars according for the new perimeter of the background. In anotherembodiment, corners of the background are used as references positionsfor the icons and control bars, regardless of background size.

After any changes, the graphics-based user interface may store analtered bitmap based on the changes to ease continual usage of thealtered bitmap. As mentioned above, changing the background size asdescribed herein is independent of keystone correction. The alteredbitmap is then stored independent of keystone correction. Storage mayalternatively include quantification of any keystone correction appliedwhen the image was stored. Recall of the background may also theninclude a check to the projector to determine if the similar ordifferent keystone correction is being used, and whether any changes inthe digital image are needed.

The present invention finds use with computer systems such as desktopand laptop computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and the like.FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary general-purpose computer system 300,representing a personal computer suitable for implementing the presentinvention.

Computer system 300 comprises a processor, or CPU, 302, system memory304, input/output (I/O) circuitry 306, display device 308, input device310, and system bus 312. System bus 312 permits digital communicationbetween system memory 304 and the processor 302, as well as permitsdigital communication between other components within system 300 andprocessor 302 and/or system memory 304.

System memory 304 includes read only memory (ROM) 314 and random accessmemory (RAM) 316. ROM 314 stores a basic input/output system 318 (BIOS),containing basic routines that help to transfer information betweenelements within computer system 300, such as during start-up. Computersystem 300 may also include a hard disk drive 320, a magnetic disk drive322, and an optical disk drive 324. Magnetic disk drive 322 reads fromand writes to a removable floppy disk 326. Optical disk drive 324 readsfrom and may write to a CD-ROM disk 328 or other optical media. Thedrives and their associated computer-readable media provide nonvolatilestorage for system 300. A number of program modules may be stored in thedrives, system memory 304, and/or RAM 310, including an operating system330, one or more application programs 332, other program modules 334,and program data 336. Although the description of computer-readablemedia above refers to a hard disk, a removable magnetic disk and aCD-ROM disk, those skilled in the art will appreciate that other typesof media are readable by a computer system, such as magnetic cassettes,flash memory cards, digital video disks, and the like. In addition, notall computer systems, such as PDAs and other portable devices mayinclude every components shown with respect to system 300.

Processor 302 is a commercially available microprocessor such as one ofthe Intel or Motorola family of chips, or another suitable commerciallyavailable processor. Processor 302 digitally communicates with systemmemory 304 via system bus 312, which may comprise a data bus, controlbus, and address bus for communication between processor 302 and memory304. CPU 302 is also coupled to the I/O circuitry 306 by system bus 312to permit data transfers with peripheral devices.

I/O circuitry 306 provides an interface between CPU 302 and suchperipheral devices as display device 308, input device 310, audio output334 and/or any other I/O device. For example, a mouse used as inputdevice 310 may digitally communicate with processor 302 through a serialport 306 that is coupled to system bus 312. Other interfaces, such as agame port or a universal serial bus (USB) or fire wire, may also providedigital communication between a peripheral device and processor 302. I/0circuitry 306 may also include latches, registers and direct memoryaccess (DMA) controllers employed for interface with peripheral andother devices. Audio output 334 may comprise one or more speakersemployed by a headphone or speaker system.

Display device 308 is for displaying objects, video information,backgrounds as described herein, graphics controls as described herein,graphics-based user interfaces as described herein, and other visualrepresentations of data. Display device 308 may comprise a cathode raytube (CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), organic light emitting diode(OLED), or plasma display, of the types commercially available from avariety of manufacturers. Display device 308 may also comprise one ormore optical modulation devices, or the like, used in projecting animage. Projection display devices that project an image onto a receivingsurface are becoming more popular, less expensive, more compact; and mayemploy one or more optical modulation technologies as well as a varietyof individual designs. Common optical modulation devices include thoseemploying liquid crystal display (LCD) technology and digital mirrordevice (DMD) technology. When used as a display device for a computer,these projection devices provide the potential for a much larger imagesize and user interface. Since images output by these devices mayencounter keystone distortion, many projectors are designed orconfigured to mechanically or digitally reduce keystonedistortion—either by manual (user) feedback or automated feedback usingone or more sensors.

Display device 308 may also digitally communicate with system bus 306via a separate video interface, such as a video adapter 346. Videoadapter 346 may be responsible for assisting processor 302 with videographics processing, and may be responsible for such functions asresolution up conversion, down conversion and suppression of portions ofa maximum image size not being used. Video adapter 346 may be a separategraphics card or graphics processor available from a variety of vendorsthat are well known in the art.

Input device 310 allows a user to enter commands and information intothe computer system 300, and may comprise a keyboard, a mouse, aposition-sensing pad on a laptop computer, a stylus working incooperation with a position-sensing display on a PDA, or the like. Otherinput devices may include a remote control, microphone, joystick, gamepad, scanner, or the like. As a further alternative, input device 332may be any set of switches capable of communicating a user input tocomputer system 350. Therefore, as used herein, the term input devicewill refer to any mechanism or device for entering data and/or pointingto a particular location on an image of a computer display. Input asdescribed herein may also come through intermediary devices. Forexample, a remote control may communicate directly with processor 302,or through an intermediary processor included in another device such asa VCR, television, a hybrid entertainment device such as a set-top box,or projector 308. The user may then input information to computer system300 using an infrared remote control device that communicates first withthe intermediary device, and then to processor 302.

In operation, input device 332 allows a user to enter input such ascommands and information related to a desired background size. The userinput may then be analyzed by processor 302 to determine desired videoinformation and set up changes, such as re-positioning icons. Ifdesired, visual feedback may be given to the user at various stages ofthe input and background change via display device 308. In oneembodiment, a graphics-based user interface implemented by computersystem 300 is programmed to respond to commands from processor 302 todisplay graphics controls such as those described above. To display aparticular graphics control, processor 302 issues an appropriatecommand, followed by an identification of data that is to be used toconstruct the graphics control. As described above, such data comprisesa number of background control tools that allow a user to change abackground size, when displayed. The graphics control may then store andcall a bitmap of pixel values relating to each background control tooldisplayed thereon. System memory 304 may also store a bitmap or similarfile that corresponds to an image previously used as the background. Thepresent invention may be practiced in the context of an applicationprogram that runs on an operating system implemented by computer system300 or in combination with other program modules on computer system 300.

The present invention may be practiced using a range of computersystems. In addition to personal computers such as desktop computers andlaptop computers, a variety of other computer systems and computerdevices employing a digital processor, memory and a display device mayimplement the present invention. Handheld computers and other smallportable digital devices such as cell phones and digital cameras areincreasingly integrating computer functionality, including the abilityto access the resources of an external network such as the Internet andthe ability to output video data to external devices. One current trendis hybrid entertainment devices that integrate the functionality ofcomputer systems, stereos, and televisions. In addition, set-top boxesassociated with cable television services are becoming much moresophisticated user interfaces as interactive services become availableto cable customers. Gaming machines such as those employed in casinoshave also progressed to fully digital systems that output digital videoon LCD screens and other display devices. Any of these devices mayemploy and benefit from graphics-based user interfaces, backgrounds,control graphics, techniques, and methods described herein.

The scope of digital computer systems is expanding hurriedly andcreating many systems and devices that may employ the present invention.A merging of television, video, and computer functions into a singledevice also adds value to the present invention since the sensitivity toimage quality and size is high in applications such as motion pictureviewing. Video game consoles that use large display devices and gamerelated graphics user interfaces may also benefit from the presentinvention. In this case, user input tools may comprise joysticks, gamepads, driving wheels and other video game interfaces. In general, anydigital device that employs an output display device such as aprojector, LCD device, plasma device, etc., for improved image displayand control may benefit from the present invention. In addition, theprojector, LCD device or plasma device may itself include its owngraphics-based user interface that employs systems and methods describedherein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that theinvention may be practiced with other computer system configurations,multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumerelectronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Thepresent invention may also be practiced on any system running agraphics-based user interface from a computer-readable memory such asinternal electronic memory, magnetic-based mass storage, and/oroptical-based mass storage. The memory is programmed to implement thetechniques described above.

In addition, embodiments of the present invention further relate tocomputer readable media that include program instructions for performingvarious computer-implemented techniques. The media and programinstructions may be those specially designed and constructed for thepurposes of the present invention, or any kind well known and availableto those having skill in the computer software arts. Examples ofcomputer-readable media include, but are not limited to, magnetic mediasuch as hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tape; semiconductormemory, optical media such as CD-ROM disks; magneto-optical media suchas optical disks; and hardware devices that are specially configured tostore program instructions, such as read-only memory devices (ROM),flash memory devices, EEPROMs, EPROMs, etc. and random access memory(RAM). Examples of program instructions include both machine code, suchas produced by a compiler, and files containing higher-level code thatmay be executed by the computer using an interpreter.

Graphics controls and graphics-based user interfaces such as thosedescribed herein may be implemented using a number of computerlanguages. One suitable language is Java, available from SunMicrosystems of Sunnyvale, Calif. Another suitable language is theMicrosoft Windows.RTM. programming environment, detailed in theMicrosoft Windows 3.1 Guide to Programming, Redmond, Wash.: MicrosoftPress, 1987-1992, in which the graphics controls may be implementedusing operating system calls.

Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail forpurposes of clarity of understanding, those skilled in the art willrecognize that various modifications may be made within the scope of theappended claims. For example, although background size quantificationtool 45 of FIG. 2 includes a text display that quantifies the currentsize of background display 42, it is understood that graphics may beused to quantify the current background size. Such a graphic may includea pie chart that quantifies a percentage of the maximum image size beingused. The invention is, therefore, not limited to the specific featuresand embodiments described herein and claimed in any of its forms ormodifications within the scope of the appended claims.

1. A computer readable medium storing a graphics control for permittinga manual alteration of a background used with a graphics based userinterface, the computer readable medium comprising: instructions fordisplaying the graphics control, the graphics control including videoinformation and at least one background control tool configured to allowa person to manually change size of the background to a new backgroundsize that is less than a maximum image size for a projection-typedisplay device that outputs the background; instructions for receivinginput from the person, via the at least one background control tool,that indicates the new background size, wherein the new background sizeis less than a maximum image size allowed by the projection-type displaydevice when the background video information is for display withoutsubstantial keystone distortion; and instructions for changing thebackground size to the new background size in response to the input fromthe person.
 2. The computer readable medium of claim 1 wherein the atleast one background control tool includes one or more position toolsthat allow the person to manually position the new background sizewithin the maximum image size.
 3. The computer readable medium of claim2 wherein the one or more position tools permit the person to manuallydrag a video representation of the new background size within themaximum image size.
 4. The computer readable medium of claim 1 whereinthe at least one background control tool includes an aspect ratio toolthat allows the person to manually set an aspect ratio for the newbackground size.
 5. The computer readable medium of claim 4 wherein theaspect ratio tool allow the person to manually select an aspect ratiofor the new background size from a predetermined list of aspect ratios.6. The computer readable medium of claim 4 wherein the aspect ratio toolallows the person to manually drag an edge of the background to createthe aspect ratio for the new background size.
 7. The computer readablemedium of claim 6 wherein the at least one background control toolincludes an arrow for display at the edge of the background that allowsthe person to manually drag the edge of the background to set the aspectratio for the new background size.
 8. The computer readable medium ofclaim 1 wherein the at least one background control tool includes a sizetool that allows the person to manually enter a new percentage size forthe new background size.
 9. The computer readable medium of claim 1wherein the at least one background control tool includes a display thatshows a size of the new background size relative to the maximum imagesize.
 10. The computer readable medium of claim 9 wherein the at leastone background control tool includes a display that shows the newbackground size within the maximum image size.
 11. The computer readablemedium of claim 1 wherein the new background size is sized to avoid anobstacle at a receiving surface of a projected output for theprojection-type display device or to avoid an obstacle along aprojection path between the projection-type display device and thereceiving surface.
 12. The computer readable medium of claim 1 furthercomprising instructions for displaying the new background size using theprojection-type display device.
 13. The computer readable medium ofclaim 1 wherein the background defines a usable area for thegraphics-based user interface.
 14. A computer readable medium storing agraphics control for changing the size of a background used with agraphics based user interface, the computer readable medium comprising:instructions for displaying the graphics control, the graphics controlincluding a) video information, b) at least one background control toolconfigured to allow a person to manually change size of the backgroundto a new background size that is less than a maximum image size for aprojection-type display device that outputs the background, and c) oneor more position tools configured to allow the person to manuallyposition the new background size within the maximum image size;instructions for receiving input from the person, via the at least onebackground control tool, that indicates the change to the new backgroundsize, wherein the new background size is less than a maximum image sizeallowed by the display device when the background video information isfor display without substantial keystone distortion; and instructionsfor changing the background size to the new background size in responseto the person input.
 15. The computer readable medium of claim 14wherein the one or more position tools permit the person to manuallydrag a video representation of the new background size within themaximum image size.
 16. A method for changing the size of a backgroundassociated with a graphics-based user interface and output by aprojection-type display device, the method comprising: displaying abackground control tool that allows a user to manually change thedimensions of a background to produce a new background size that is lessthan a maximum image size allowed by the projection-type display devicewhen the background video information is displayed without substantialkeystone distortion, wherein the background defines a usable area forthe graphics-based user interface; receiving user input, via thebackground control tool, that manually changes the dimensions of thebackground to create the new background size that is less than a maximumimage size allowed by the projection-type display device; in response tothe user input that manually changes the dimensions of the background tothe new background size, displaying a video representation of the newbackground size; receiving manual acceptance of the new background size;changing the dimensions of the background to the new background size;and displaying the new background size.
 17. The method of claim 16further comprising receiving manual input from the user that positionsthe new background size within a maximum image size for theprojection-type display device.
 18. The method of claim 16 wherein theat least one background control tool includes an aspect ratio tool thatallows the person to manually drag an edge of the background to create anew aspect ratio for the new background size.
 19. The method of claim 16wherein displaying the visual representation of the new background sizedisplays the new background size within a visual representation of themaximum image size.
 20. The method of claim 16 wherein the background issized to avoid an obstacle at a receiving surface for theprojection-type display device or sized to avoid an obstacle along aprojection path between the projection-type display device and thereceiving surface.